Spiced Pear Scones

These scones are full of whole grains, comforting spices, fall fruit, and a hint of vanilla. I can't forget to mention, whole-grains contain a powerhouse of nutrients - fiber, healthy fats, some protein, minerals, B-vitamins, and are a great source of complex carbs. All this goodness makes these an impeccable on-the-go breakfast or healthy snack option. However, you choose to consume, they wouldn't be complete without a tall glass of milk, cuppa tea, or coffee. Sometimes, I'll pair one of these scones (warmed, of course!) with a container of Greek yogurt to keep me feeling fuller longer.

Kitchen Tip: Did you know you can use one tablespoon ground flaxseed meal combined with three tablespoons of water for every egg in recipes? Just mix the two ingredients and wait five minutes to add the recipe. This tip is one to bookmark, so the next time when you are in the middle of baking and run out of eggs, you will have a plan. I always have a bag of ground flaxseed mill on hand!

Ingredients:

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 cup quick 1-minute oats

1/3 cup granulated sugar

1/2 tsp. baking powder

1/2 tsp. baking soda

1 tsp. ground ginger

1/4 tsp. cinnamon

1/4 tsp. nutmeg

3 Tbsp. butter

2/3 cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt or sour cream

1 Tbsp. ground flaxseed + 3 Tbsp. water

1 tsp. vanilla

2 (4 oz) drained diced pear cups in 100% juice*

Optional: 2 tsp. brown sugar to sprinkle on top before baking

Directions:

1. Heat oven to 400°F and lightly grease a large cookie sheet.

2. Combine flaxseed and water and let sit for 5 mins.

3. In a large bowl, combine the flour, oats, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cut in butter using a pastry blender or fingertips until the mixture resembles small crumbs.

4. In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, flaxseed mixture, and vanilla. Then add to dry mixture and mix until moistened. Fold in pears.

5. Using a 1/4 cup, scoop mixture, and place on prepared baking sheet. Add a pinch of brown sugar to the top of each scone.

6. Bake 15 mins. or until the edges are slightly brown. Serve warm or reheat in the microwave on high for 15-30 seconds, depending on the microwave.

These scones are full of whole grains, comforting spices, fall fruit, and a hint of vanilla. I can't forget to mention, whole-grains contain a powerhouse of nutrients - fiber, healthy fats, some protein, minerals, B-vitamins, and are a great source of complex carbs. All this goodness makes these an impeccable on-the-go breakfast or healthy snack option. However, you choose to consume, they wouldn't be complete without a tall glass of milk, cuppa tea, or coffee. Sometimes, I'll pair one of these scones (warmed, of course!) with a container of Greek yogurt to keep me feeling fuller longer.

*An egg can be used in place of the ground flaxseed and water mixture.

Photo credit: Valley Nutrition & Wellness, LLC/Jessica Clark, RD, LDN